Follow-up statement occupation UG 25 April

On Tuesday 25 April, the police evacuated the Academy Building after protesting students had been asked to leave the building several times. A day that should have been marked by a mutually constructive dialogue did not end as we had hoped, unfortunately. We have made every effort, both during our preparation and on the day itself, to make the dialogue successful. Unfortunately, all our attempts and approaches for a constructive conversation with the protesting students have been ignored or rejected.

As a university, we are open to a dialogue in which all issues can be discussed. We do so in a constructive and respectful way so that everyone can work and study in a good and safe manner. We feel responsible for that. We make sure that all members of our UG community, including people who were in no way involved with the student occupation, can continue to do so.

We regret that it was not possible, as agreed upon on 22 March, to jointly continue the dialogue on the further improvement of social safety at the UG. Nevertheless, this remains our commitment. We believe that we can only achieve this through a sincere and open dialogue—together. To that end, our door is always open.

The Board of the University,

Jouke de Vries
Cisca Wijmenga
Hans Biemans